Deepika Padukone has reportedly turned down several big projects over the years, including Spirit, Kalki 2898 AD, Fast & Furious 7, Dhoom 3, Sultan, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Rockstar, Gangubai Kathiawadi, and Jab Tak Hai Jaan. The main reasons cited for her exit from these films were scheduling conflicts and roles that she felt lacked depth.
Bollywood diva Deepika Padukone is counted among the top actresses of the industry.
Currently, she is enjoying her motherhood phase, and fans last saw her on-screen in Singham 3. While audiences are eagerly waiting for her comeback, the news of her stepping away from back-to-back projects has left many fans disappointed.
Recently, reports of Deepika’s exit from Spirit and now the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD shocked everyone. Though several reasons are being speculated on social media, neither the actress nor the makers have officially revealed the truth behind her decisions.
Deepika Padukone and the Films She Rejected
This isn’t the first time Deepika Padukone has walked away from big-ticket films. Whether she was dropped by makers or chose to leave due to personal reasons, only she knows. However, her exit from these projects has always sparked discussions in Bollywood circles. Here’s a look at some major films Deepika turned down:
Jab Tak Hai Jaan
In Yash Chopra’s last directorial Jab Tak Hai Jaan, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma, and Katrina Kaif, Deepika was initially offered Katrina’s role. However, she turned it down, and the part eventually went to Katrina.
Fast & Furious 7
According to media reports, Deepika Padukone was offered a role in Fast & Furious 7. However, due to date clashes with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, she had to decline the offer.
Dhoom 3
Deepika Padukone was reportedly approached for a key role in Dhoom 3. But owing to her busy schedule and work commitments, she couldn’t be a part of the blockbuster.
Sultan
The Salman Khan starrer Sultan was a massive hit, but few know that the film was first offered to Deepika. Due to reasons not disclosed, she didn’t take up the role, which eventually went to Anushka Sharma.
Prem Ratan Dhan Payo
Deepika was also offered the lead in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo. However, she wasn’t convinced about the strength of the character and chose to reject it. The role later went to Sonam Kapoor.
Rockstar
Reports suggest Deepika Padukone was the first choice for Rockstar. But with date issues once again coming in the way, she opted out, and the role was offered to Nargis Fakhri, who starred opposite Ranbir Kapoor.
Gangubai Kathiawadi
As per an India Today report, Deepika Padukone was approached for a role in Gangubai Kathiawadi. However, she reportedly declined, with buzz suggesting she wasn’t keen on sharing screen space with Alia Bhatt or committing to the intense crime drama.
From Hollywood offers to Bollywood blockbusters, Deepika Padukone has let go of several high-profile films over the years — some due to scheduling conflicts, others because the roles didn’t excite her. While fans await her much-anticipated comeback, her choices continue to spark conversations in the industry.